About MDA
Architectural Firm
Founded in July 2005
BASED IN THE EASTERN CAPE
Founded in July 2005 by Samkelo Mbalo, Pat Dalgleish, and Duncan Angus in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, MDA Architects has grown into a multidisciplinary practice with offices in Port Elizabeth, East London, and Mthatha. We specialize in a diverse range of projects, including commercial, governmental, residential, and mixed-use developments. Our portfolio features notable projects such as the Potsdam Engineering Faculty and Project T. reflecting our commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and contextually relevant.
At MDA Architects, we believe in architecture that responds meaningfully to its environment, balancing aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Our approach is collaborative and client-focused, ensuring that each project is tailored to meet specific needs while contributing positively to the built environment. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions that stand the test of time.
Our Design Objectives
At MDA Architects, our design objectives are grounded in context, purpose, and clarity. We strive to create architecture that responds meaningfully to its environment—whether natural, cultural, or urban—while delivering spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional. Sustainability is a core priority, with every project designed for longevity, energy efficiency, and responsible material use. We favour simplicity and restraint, allowing structure, light, and form to express themselves with honesty and strength. Above all, our design process centres around people — crafting intuitive, uplifting spaces shaped through collaboration with clients, communities, and professionals alike.
Our Expertise
MDA Architects brings together a multidisciplinary team with deep experience across the built environment. Our strength lies in delivering thoughtful, technically sound, and visually striking architecture — from concept to completion. We specialise in commercial, governmental, residential, industrial, hospitality and mixed-use developments, with a proven ability to navigate complex briefs and tight urban or rural contexts. Our expertise spans not only architectural design but also project management, construction oversight, and turnkey delivery. Whether we’re restoring heritage buildings or breaking ground on new developments, we combine design excellence with practical know-how to deliver lasting value for our clients and communities.
Services
- Commercial Architecture
- Goverment & Public Projects
- Residential Design
- Turnkey Solutions
- Renovations & Adaptive Reuse
- Heritage & Revitalization
- Project Management
- Principal Agency
Workflow
- Understand the Site
- Shape the Vision
- Collaborate & Refine
- Deliver with Care
- Reflect & Grow
Core values
- Integrity
- Excellence
- Responsiveness
- Collaboration
- Innovation
- Respect for Place
The Numbers
Completed Projects
%
Interior Design
Our Workflow
Phase 1
Understand the Site
Phase 2
Shape the Vision
Phase 3
Collaborate & Refine
Phase 4
Deliver with Care
Phase 5
Reflect & Grow
Our Core Values
Integrity
Exellence
Responsiveness
Collaboration
Innovation
Respect for Place
Echoing Christian Norberg-Schulz (Genius Loci / Place & Spirit)
“We believe good architecture does not simply occupy space — it reveals the spirit of place, grounding people in memory, identity, and meaning.”